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tormontorcam t1_ixxre98 wrote

It will be more affordable to find a renovated place in an older building than to look for a canadian-style new build. There is very little in Cambridge that looks like the relatively brand new condos you have all over vancouver/toronto/calgary.

There is a small amount of Canada-style new condos in Kendall and Alewife, but be prepared for sticker shock (3-4k/month, as others have said, vs potentially under 3k if you're getting a renovated unit in an older building).

Also be prepared to have no credit score when moving to the US. Credit checks are a big thing here and you will have no credit. Open a credit card as soon as possible when you get your SSN, so that when it comes time to rent a place in month 2, something comes up on your credit score when they run it. TD operates in both countries and will give you credit in the US based on your credit scores in Canada. Amex may do the same.

Also, if you are coming to work in tech or biotech, companies regularly offer a relocation bonus/amount/help, which often includes temporary housing for 4-8 weeks. Worth asking your company about it.

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bluskers_hi OP t1_ixyoaho wrote

The credit score issue is what concerned me. Luckily, I’ve had US credit since January, as I’ve been on an internship for 8 months in the US already.

Do you think that will be enough for a decent credit score? I’ve heard of paying companies to guarantee your lease - have you heard of these?

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NikkiMowse t1_ixzvda0 wrote

You sound very prepared! Are you coming from a competitive housing market area? I think you’ll be ok with the information you’re getting here! good luck!

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bluskers_hi OP t1_ixzydl8 wrote

How could you tell /s

If you’ve ever lived in or heard of the Toronto housing market - it’s absolutely insanity in availability and pricing.

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NikkiMowse t1_ixzyv7a wrote

yeah I was going to guess it was Toronto. hopefully cambridge proves easier for you!

Edit: make sure your future lease stipulates that the security deposit is held in a bank account accruing interest. it’s the law and is often ignored.

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tormontorcam t1_ixz0b3d wrote

Ya thats probably fine. You're not buying a house, it is just a check to make sure you're OK to rent

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